Travel experts have issued urgent advice for anyone heading to the Mediterranean this summer after earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. An earthquake hit the Greek island of Rhodes on Tuesday morning and a second hit the Turkish resort or Marmaris shortly after, leaving a 14-year-old girl dead and dozens of people injured.
The earthquakes came hours after the volcano Mount Etna in Italy erupted. Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, began spewing ash early in the day on Monday, temporarily disrupting air traffic at Catania Airport, and sending locals and tourists running for safety.
Travel insurance expert Alicia Hempsted from MoneySuperMarket said: “Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, can leave holidaymakers facing increased delays, travel disruption and cancellations. Travellers who are affected should check their travel insurance policy documents to see if they are eligible for compensation.
“Travel insurance policies that include natural disaster cover will generally cover you for cancelled accommodation, travel and activities, as well as emergency medical care and evacuation should you need it.
“Under UK and EU regulations, airlines are not required to compensate you for delayed or cancelled flights in ‘extraordinary circumstances’, which include natural disasters, such as earthquakes or tsunamis. If your flight, however, is delayed because of this, your airline has an obligation to offer food, drink and accommodation depending on the length of your delay.”
“If extreme conditions are forecasted before you book or leave for your trip, and you choose to travel regardless, your insurance provider may not cover you for any related problems.
“Buying your travel insurance as soon as you book your trip can ensure you are protected against the unexpected. Check your policy terms before buying your insurance, as some travel insurance providers may not cover you as standard in the event of a natural disaster.
“Be aware that if your policy includes natural disaster cover, this will only be paid out if the FCDO warns against anything other than essential travel. If your plans are impacted by a disaster, contact your insurance and airline as soon as you can.”
In Italy, Catania Airport is now open, but 20% of arriving flights are facing delays.
Anton Radchenko, aviation expert and founder of AirAdvisor, said: “Natural events like volcanic eruptions can be unpredictable, but they don’t have to ruin your travel plans. The June 2 Mount Etna eruption has understandably caused concern, but the good news is that Sicily remains open and safe for travel.
“So, there’s no reason for Brits to cancel their Sicily holidays. Airspace is open, and the Mount Etna activity, while newsworthy, is being managed by Italian aviation authorities with high precision. Our analysis of flight data shows that while 20% of Catania flights are delayed, there are no cancellations, and that’s critical for UK passengers planning summer getaways.
“The key takeaway here is: don’t cancel, just prepare. I always tell travellers to treat nature like you treat traffic—plan for a bump in the road, but don’t abandon the journey. Book flexible tickets, arrive early at the airport, and keep an eye on real-time updates from the INGV and Catania Airport. Also, remember that even if compensation under EU261 may not apply due to the nature of the disruption, your right to meals, hotel stays, and alternative travel options still stands. Don’t let uncertainty catch you off guard; if you’re prepared, you’ll travel with peace of mind.
“Last but not least, here’s a pro tip: check if your travel insurance covers natural disasters. It’s a small detail most people miss, but it can make a big difference if your plans change last-minute.”
